From fear to hope.
Louis and ‘Sneezy’ are rewriting what’s possible.
“We felt alone and frightened about what blindness would mean for Louis.”
Scarlett and James were first-time parents, and their newborn baby was blind. The task ahead seemed overwhelming. What sort of life could they give baby Louis? A phone call to Guide Dogs Victoria brought reassurance, and support that has changed with Louis’ needs.
Today, Louis is five, funny, and charming. He changes perceptions wherever he goes. Louis had his first tiny white cane when he was six months old, and his current white cane is called ‘Sneezy’. Louis won’t have an ordinary life. He’s already extraordinary.
“There’s no ‘can’t’ in life for Louis and Sneezy.”
Finding confidence in every step.
Lottie and Kenita are taking centre stage.
“I used to get very anxious about crowds and noise.”
Lottie always knew she’d be a professional musician. She could read Braille music by the time she was 10. But getting around to rehearsals and performances safely? That part was a little more challenging.
With the help of Guide Dog Kenita, Lottie is stepping into freedom and independence as a young performer. She teaches music, she’s in a band, and she sings, plays and dances in live performances. Blindness won’t stop Lottie’s talent from shining.
“We’re doing a musical theatre production. I’m one of the leads!”
A family’s turning point.
With Fraser, David is soaring again.
“I felt powerless – like I was letting my family down.”
As retinitis pigmentosa took his vision, David lost his confidence. He retreated, and his health declined. He could longer do the things he wanted to for his family.
When Guide Dog Fraser arrived, the changes were immediate and joyful! David is out and about every day now. His health is so much better. Best of all, Fraser helps David be the husband and father he wants to be. Fraser is a gift to the whole family.
“Now, I can say ‘Don’t worry, I’ll sort it’. I feel like I’m flying!”
Every year in Australia more and more people are affected by low vision or blindness.
Within the next six years, you, someone you know, or a loved one may be affected.
With your support, Guide Dogs can empower people to live the life they choose. Your gift to Guide Dogs can help change someone’s life.
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